'Anne Frank' inspires at Los Alamitos

Bianca Pompa as Anne Frank and Evan Cusato as Peter Van Daan star in Costa Mesa High School's "The Diary of Anne Frank." COURTESY OF COSTA MESA HIGH SCHOOL

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JeanneAnne Faris is a junior at Santa Margarita Catholic High School. ISAAC ARJONILLA, ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

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Stella Thermos as Margot Frank, Bianca Pompa as Anne Frank, Nikki Law as Mrs. Frank and Ryan Rogers as Mr. Frank, from left, star in Costa Mesa High School's "The Diary of Anne Frank." COURTESY OF COSTA MESA HIGH SCHOOL

The stage adaptation of “The Diary of Anne Frank” performed by Los Alamitos High School tells the story of Anne and her family while they were in hiding during World War II. Despite the injustices they faced, Anne’s story lives on because of her forgiving disposition.

Bianca Pompa brings to life the youthful nature of Anne, the young girl with so much heart. Whether she’s raising her chin as she pretends to be a lady or is overtaken by fear as she hides under the covers and lets out an earth-shattering scream during one of her nightmares, Pompa captures the energy and vivacity of Anne.

Ryan Rogers as Mr. Frank stirringly portrays his character, paying great attention to each of his movements, whether he’s clenching Anne’s diary or soothing his wife with an impenetrable embrace. As Mrs. Frank, Nikki Law demonstrates a wide range of emotion as she comforts Anne during her nightmare or lashes out when under pressure.

With a demanding presence and a clear, robust voice as Mr. Van Daan, Travis Baker impresses with his ability to realistically portray a breakdown as a result of elevated stress and relentless arguments with his wife (Moira Scott).

The lighting design by Jasmine Menendez flawlessly aids in the portrayal of the story. It involves the creative use of lamplight, and the incredible effect of light seeping through the wooden slats of the set helps heighten the intensity at the end of the play. The sound design by Travis Baker and Ryan Rogers proves effective, with several original compositions of music played behind narrations of Anne’s diary.

The story of Anne Frank and those who lived with her in hiding is brought to life in this production, continuing the legacy of a girl who, despite her persecution, saw the goodness in everyone.

JeanneAnn Faris is a junior at Santa Margarita Catholic High School in Rancho Santa Margarita.

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